Franklin BSP Realty Trust appoints Richard Byrne as CEO

By Bobby Samwell • Thursday, September 17 14:59 • Permanent Link

Franklin BSP Realty Trust has brought back Richard Byrne as chief executive officer, effective Sept. 16, 2026, replacing Michael Comparato, who resigned on Sept. 15.

Byrne, who had continued as chairman of the board, is returning to the top job after previously serving as CEO. Jerry Baglien will remain chief financial officer and chief operating officer and has also been named co-president alongside Brian Buffone. Baglien will take on responsibility for BSP’s commercial real estate debt platform. Comparato will move into a senior advisor role through 2027.

The leadership shift comes as the company says its asset base stood at about $6.4 billion as of June 30, 2026. Franklin BSP Realty Trust focuses on originating, acquiring and managing a portfolio of commercial real estate debt secured by U.S. properties.

BSP, the external manager of Franklin BSP Realty Trust, reported $96.4 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2026, including Apera. As a result of these announcements, the company's shares have moved -1.36% on the market, and are now trading at a price of $7.625. If you want to know more, read the company's complete 8-K report here.

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